Growing up in the Appalachian mountains taught me a lot—how to fix a fence, how to can tomatoes, how to appreciate the stillness of early mornings. But moving to the city? That was a whole new kind of education. Life in the fast lane comes with its own lessons, some humbling and some empowering. Here are five unexpected things this country girl has learned since trading dirt roads for concrete crosswalks.

🏙️ 1. Not Everyone Greets You with a Smile—and That’s Okay

Back home, a smile and a “how ya doin’?” were just part of being polite. In the city, not so much. At first, it felt cold. But I’ve learned that silence doesn’t always mean rudeness. Some folks are just in survival mode. And sometimes, kindness shows up in smaller ways—a held elevator door, a stranger helping carry your groceries up the stairs.

🚶‍♀️ 2. Hustle Doesn’t Mean Heartlessness

City life moves fast. People rush. Deadlines pile up. It’s easy to think the pace means people care less—but that’s not true. I’ve met some of the most passionate, dedicated, and caring people in the middle of that madness. They love hard, they fight for what matters, and they show up. Just differently than they do back home.

🛠️ 3. Small-Town Skills Are Big-City Superpowers

Knowing how to patch a leaky faucet, cook a decent meal without a microwave, or navigate without GPS? Total game-changers here. The common-sense skills I picked up in the country have made me more self-sufficient and resilient than I ever realized. You don’t need a handyman when you were raised by one!

💬 4. Speaking Softly Can Still Make an Impact

In the country, you learned to listen before speaking. That kind of quiet wisdom stands out in the city where everyone’s talking over each other. I’ve learned that calm confidence often gets more respect than shouting ever could.

🙏 5. God Is Everywhere—Even in the Chaos

At first, I feared I’d lose my peace in the noise. But I’ve found Him in unexpected places: a quiet moment in a crowded park, the stillness of dawn between sirens, a whispered prayer on a crowded train. He’s not just in the mountains. He’s in the mess too.

💡 Final Thoughts

I may not wear boots every day or smell fresh hay in the morning, but the country girl in me is still alive and well. The city didn’t erase who I am—it revealed more of who I could be. If you’re navigating a new world and wondering if you still belong, remember this: God doesn’t waste any ground. He builds on every season.

Big city or small town—He’s writing your story right where you are.

☕ Support This Journey

Did this post speak to your heart? If so, I’d be honored if you supported my work with a small tip over at Buy Me a Coffee. Every gesture keeps me writing, dreaming, and sharing these reflections from both the hills and the high-rises. Thank you from the bottom of this country girl’s heart! 💛🐾☕